Description

The Speckled Kingsnake is a relatively common member of genus Lampropeltis found throughout Mississippi outside of the extreme northeast corner of the state (Conant & Collins, 1998). They inhabit woodlands, grasslands, coastal plains, and drainage valleys (Powell et al., 2016). They have been formerly considered a subspecies of the Eastern Kingsnake (Lampropeltis getula). This species primarily constricts and eats other snakes, such as copperheads and cottonmouths, but may cannibalize as well as eat rodents, frogs, or other small vertebrates. Considered consolidated (or lumped) as a speckled variety of Lampropeltis nigra by recent genetic studies.

Identifying Traits

• Glossy black scales with yellow or cream speckling throughout
• Juveniles may be semi-banded

Habitat

Woodlands, prairies, coastal plains, drainage swamps and wetlands

Behavior

Relatively secretive, but active during the day, and occasionally nocturnal in the warmer parts of the year. Usually active in morning and dusk.

Diet

Snakes, lizards, frogs, small mammals